Former Minister of Trade and Industry, Dr. Ekwow Spio-Garbrah, has waded into the ongoing debate surrounding the suspension of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, stressing that the rule of law must be upheld regardless of a person’s position in society.
His remarks come as Justice Torkornoo challenges the legitimacy of a closed-door inquiry into three petitions seeking her removal from office.
The Chief Justice has filed a suit at the Supreme Court, seeking constitutional interpretation and an injunction to halt the work of the investigative committee.
Speaking to JoyNews‘ Blessed Sogah in Abidjan, Dr. Spio-Garbrah underscored the importance of equality before the law.
“As Chief Justice, she has been enforcing the law. Now the law is being applied to her. Unless she proves the allegations are false, the process must go on,” he stated.
While Justice Torkornoo has cited emotional distress and procedural irregularities in her legal challenge, the former minister refrained from commenting on her personal situation, instead highlighting that adversity affects everyone differently.
“It’s about how each individual copes. We all face challenges—loss, accidents, hardship—and we respond differently. So I won’t speak on her emotional state,” he said.
Addressing concerns raised over a change in the location of a disciplinary hearing, Dr. Spio-Garbrah maintained that procedural decisions ultimately lie with the government.
“From what I’ve heard, she was expecting the hearing at one venue, but the government chose another. That’s within the government’s right,” he noted.
On whether the Chief Justice should resign, he said such a decision is personal and depends on a variety of factors. However, he noted that top public officials like the Chief Justice retire on their full salaries, which could make staying in office less critical.
“If you’re entitled to your full salary after retirement, why fight to remain in office? Unless there are other privileges you still want to enjoy—perhaps benefits that extend to family members,” he suggested.
Dr. Spio-Garbrah concluded that while he wouldn’t pass judgment on the Chief Justice’s decisions, public officials must always weigh their actions carefully, especially when their choices have broader implications for governance and public trust.
